Patil's victory is landmark event in Mah's history: Deshmukh

Mumbai, July 21 (UNI) Expressing happiness over the massive victory of Ms Pratibha Patil in the Presidential poll, Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh said the event was a historic landmark in the state's glory and pride.

Mr Deshmukh, in a statement here, said ''The victory was of special significance to the state as it was for the first time that a Maharashtrian will be the next occupant of Rashtrapati Bhavan.

This is an honour to the ten crore population of the state.'' ''Pratibhatai has successfully worked in several capacities in her public and political career. The country will benefit from her vast knowledge and experience. She is an efficient person and it is a matter of pride that she will be the next occupant of Rashtrapati Bhavan. I am confident that she will pay more attention to women's issues and problems. Maharashtra has always created history and in Pratibhatai's victory, India will have her first woman President,'' he said.

Mr Deshmukh thanked UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, all allies of UPA, Left and Shiv Sena for supporting Mrs Patil's candidature.

UNI